Fill the Stage with Happy Hours

Synopsis

England, 1973, in the shabby yet spirited world of repertory theatre.

Albert Harris leads a struggling repertory company through the trials and triumphs of theatrical life. As Albert and his troupe, including his wife Maggie, daughter Gillian, brother Harold, and actress Audrey Brown, prepare for their next production, they grapple with personal dramas, financial woes, and the constant challenge of keeping their artistic dreams alive. Their backstage shenanigans and onstage mishaps paint a vivid picture of the dedication and resilience required to survive in the world of repertory theatre.

Wood’s comedy, drawn from his own theatrical experiences, blends sharp wit with poignant observations about the nature of performance and reality. Through meta-theatrical elements and richly drawn characters, Fill the Stage with Happy Hours celebrates the spirit of those who devote their lives to the stage, highlighting both the struggles and the deep sense of camaraderie that define the theatrical world. The play offers a loving, humorous tribute to the enduring magic of theatre and the colourful personalities who bring it to life.